2016 Ford Fiesta 1.5L Diesel · AJ65 AEP

The 2016 Ford Fiesta’s most recent MOT test on 2025-10-30 passed without defects, though it follows an identical failed test just two days prior at 58,573 miles—an anomaly that suggests either a minor administrative oversight or a temporary operational issue at the test centre. The preceding MOT cycle in 2024 also ended in a double test (both passed and failed on the same date) at 51,318 miles, reinforcing that no substantive mechanical failures were recorded. This pattern of clean passes with no recurring advisories or defects indicates the vehicle has not experienced persistent issues requiring repeated attention. However, the lack of advisories in prior tests means no prior owner was compelled to address wear items like suspension bushes, coil springs, or brake caliper binding, which could now be approaching service thresholds. The recorded mileage of 58,575 miles over a decade—roughly 5,858 miles annually—is unusually low for a vehicle of this age, suggesting either infrequent use or prolonged periods of storage. The gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests spans 1,703 miles in 12 months, while the 2024 to 2025 interval covers 7,257 miles in the same period, indicating variable usage rather than consistent wear. Such low mileage may mitigate some degradation risks, but it also raises questions about whether critical components like brake pads, timing belt (if applicable), or fluid changes were performed at recommended intervals. The absence of mileage gaps exceeding 15,000 miles between tests suggests the vehicle was not left stationary for extended periods, which could have exacerbated corrosion or suspension deterioration. Given the clean MOT history, a prospective buyer should prioritise an in-person inspection of high-wear items that were not flagged in tests, such as the suspension system—particularly rear bushes and coil springs—for excessive play or corrosion. Brake discs and calipers should be checked for uneven wear or binding, as the lack of advisories does not guarantee they have been serviced. Tyres, though not recorded in failures, warrant scrutiny for uneven tread wear or embedded debris, which could indicate alignment or suspension issues. Additionally, the underbody and wheel arches should be inspected for signs of structural rust, especially around the sills and subframe, as low mileage does not preclude environmental damage. Fluid levels (brake, power steering, coolant) and condition should also be verified, as these are not routinely tested in MOTs but are critical to long-term reliability.